KazuNori: The Original Hand Roll Bar — Restaurant in Los Angeles

My party and I had an exceptional dining experience at Kazu Nori, nestled in the heart of downtown LA. Despite a brief 35-minute wait (we arrived at 2 PM on a Sunday), the anticipation only heightened our excitement. Upon entering, we were greeted by a captivating seating arrangement—an interesting U shape that fostered a convivial atmosphere. Eager to indulge in their culinary delights, I ordered Nozawa's 6 hand roll, one of their exquisite specials, accompanied by an additional salmon hand roll with succulent salmon sashimi. The quality of the fish was unparalleled; each bite revealed a burst of freshness that delighted my taste buds. Complementing the seafood, the warm and tender rice served as a comforting foundation for the flavor symphony. Portions were generously sized—my choices alone were ample to satisfy two adults. The swift and efficient service impressed us greatly; the attentive staff ensured our needs were met promptly and professionally. Moreover, we couldn't help but notice the impeccable cleanliness of both the dining area and restrooms, a testament to the restaurant's commitment to maintaining an inviting and hygienic environment. Overall, Kazu Nori provided a truly memorable dining experience. From the delectable offerings to the swift and attentive service, every aspect contributed to a wonderful outing. If you find yourself in downtown LA, I highly recommend indulging in the culinary delights of Kazu Nori—prepare to be captivated by their fresh and...

Unfortunately, the server I had felt the need to talk to his manager about me asking if I could move into some seats near my friends, if they became available. The manager confronted us and asked us if we would leave and get back in line as a party of 4 because he was under the impression that we weren't ordering food until we sat near our friends. We had already ordered a round of rolls and were planning on ordering more either way. I understand how food service works. I'm literally in food service. First come = first serve. I merely asked a question. As a result, my girlfriend felt uncomfortable with the whole experience. Afterwards, the server became reluctant to approach us when I was trying to order more food, which makes no sense, considering they want people to order food quickly. I will never come back here because of the way the manager approached us. Maybe it wasn't his fault. Perhaps the server misunderstood me. Either way, you do not make customers feel as if they are unwelcome. As for the food. Everything except the shrimp was pretty good. I really enjoyed the toro. My girlfriend totally enjoyed all of the food though. Overall, I wish they had tried to understand what we were requesting and not assuming that we were creating a problem. Even the customers next to us felt that we were being treated differently than everyone else. The manager isn't my problem. He seemed direct, which must be tough in a city business. The server acted like a retail employee...

KazuNori is an amazing hidden gem in the downtown LA situated downtown proper and Little Tokyo. This hand roll bar offers set course menu and a la crate ordering for handrolls, with changing daily specials, but for the specials you might try to get in before the lunch rush as quantities are limited. The menu also includes daily offerings of sashimi, however the handrolls are their mainstay. KazuNori, after restaurateur Kazunori Nozawa of a beloved SugarFish, has put together a genius concept in this handroll hideaway. With that being said you know the quality and freshness of the product is of top notch from the rice and seaweed to the fish itself. The set menu is a very modest pricing with four levels to choose from; $12/3-handrolls, $15/4-handrolls, $20/5-handrolls and $24/6-handrolls. The five and six handroll sets include bay scallops and lobster, so I reccomend these tiers, however I was a happy full after the four set, with a daily special Albacore handroll to finish. They have beer and offer sake by the cup and nigori, but this counter centered restaurant focuses primarily on the fish. The service is friendly and fast paced and you sit around a counter with chef divvying out handrolls as orders come in. Dining space is limited so I wouldn't go with a large group, but in my opinion it is great for single diners, couples amd small groups. Highly recommend giving KazuNori a go the next time you are craving...